Candace Parker Providing Mentorship To Bianka Bryant & The Next Generation

In a heartwarming post that has captured the attention of the basketball community, recently retired WNBA star Candace Parker shared a glimpse of her life after playing professional basketball. Parker shared a photo of herself training Bianka Bryant, the second-youngest daughter of Kobe Bryant, on her Instagram account as she starts her basketball journey. After her departure from the WNBA, Parker has shown her dedication to nurturing the next generation of talent by embracing mentorship as one of several activities.

 

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Bianka’s natural aptitude for the game was showcased in Parker’s Instagram post and shared on Parker’s Instagram story. Parker expressed admiration for the young Bryant’s footwork, writing, “Look at the wrist loaded under the ball… On her toes… Basketball in her blood! Mini Mamba, Aunty Candace is so proud of you BB! And you too, coach Vanessa Bryant.”

The message highlighted both Bianka’s potential and Vanessa Bryant’s supportive role.

The entry of Bianka into basketball is particularly touching because she was born just a few months after her father, Kobe Bryant, ended his legendary NBA career. Basketball could become a significant part of her extracurricular activities and personal growth as she approaches her eighth birthday in December. Watching Bianka embrace the sport her father loved is a touching reminder of Kobe’s enduring legacy and passion for basketball being passed down to his children.

Kobe’s oldest daughter, Natalia, has chosen to pursue filmmaking as her passion while Bianka is exploring basketball. Natalia’s father inspired her to study film in college, and she often recalls the many movies she watched with Kobe. The Bryant family’s blend of interests shows how they honor Kobe’s diverse passions and impact.

Kobe Bryant’s Legacy Lives On in the Basketball Community

Kobe Bryant’s influence still remains strong in the basketball world, with players continually finding ways to honor his memory. When joining the Philadelphia 76ers, NBA superstar Paul George chose to wear the number 8 jersey, which was Kobe’s initial jersey for the Lakers. George stated that his decision was a way to pay tribute to Bryant, “C’mon man, I’m in Philly, my idol, the ‘Bean’ Kobe Bryant, my way of idolizing Kobe, and something that meant something outside of 24 and 13. It was only right… I like the eight, the 8 looks good on me.”

George is not alone in his tribute. Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics is a member of Team USA and wears number 10 like Kobe did during his Olympic appearances. Tatum, who admired Bryant, takes advantage of every chance to pay tribute to his idol, demonstrating the profound influence Kobe had on the next generation of basketball stars.

When asked about the number choice during Team USA training camp in Las Vegas, Tatum shared that it is “nothing short of an honor.”